Salvation Army reverses decision about bell ringer

WAUSAU — Salvation Army officials say a man dressed as Santa, who gave away Beanie Babies at a Wisconsin elementary school, will be allowed to ring bells again.

The Salvation Army earlier said the man was no longer allowed to ring bells.

On Monday, Wausau police say the man stopped by Franklin Elementary School on his way home from ringing bells for the Salvation Army. Officials say he gave students Beanie Babies, which were later returned. He was asked to leave the school.

Salvation Army Lt. Melinda Tripp tells WAOW-TV that after speaking with police, she believes the man meant no harm.

Tripp says bell ringers are allowed to only hand out items provided by the Salvation Army. She says the man did not have approval to hand out Beanie Babies.